Echoes in Time

Raoul sat quietly in his office, Yui had long gone to sleep after their lovemaking session, and lay sprawled out across the satin sheets. Dawn would soon rise, but Raoul had failed to get his mind to settle down. He had sat in his office with the lights off, and only the serene shades of the fireplace lit the darkness, wondering what to do. He looked at the monitor in front of him, knowing that once he made the decision to accept the data crystal, there was really no turning back.

“Please Press Enter.”

The command blinked for quite some time now, as he wavered between viewing the data crystal, or not. He was afraid. This was not an area he knew well, as he was bred to be just who he was. But a new name and title was given to him, Sentinel At Arms. He would soon discover, that this title was his all along, as it was his father's and his father's father before him. A concept he also could not yet accept, for he was not like Iason with memories flooding his mind, no glimpses of a life long lived, so long ago.

Iason had most if not all his memories, even if they were held in check by Jupiter's mind block. Memories of a Father and Mother, a lover who was -and is- a Prince of all things, and friends, true friends. Something unheard of for a Blondie from Amoi, living in a modern metropolis, detached from all things, and everyone, only to know that he was privileged, and now, to his knowledge- programmed.

The Elite had their lives all mapped out by Jupiter, so he felt most of his life was preordained, and only placed on track due to his inability to recall his previous life. Would he ever share such awakenings as Iason and Riki? What if his memories never returned? And if they did, would he cease to be Lord Raoul Am? If his father returns from the dust, would he know him? Yes, the insecurities that ran in his mind had him frozen with fear.

“Damn it all, what do I have to fear? Will my life change so much, that I fear what this data crystal holds?”

Raoul raised his hand and pressed “Enter” The image of Jupiter appeared and spoke.

“Good Evening Lord Am, I am pleased that you have chosen to view this data crystal. I have long hoped to address each of my children as to the lives they once lived. Time and again I waited for the glimmer of recall to light your eyes, yet it did not arrive. Since the search for Lord Iason and Prince Riki's remains went on undiscovered, I held back birthing you and your contemporaries.

I long held hope that once my Flame and his Tempest were located, I could begin the Renaissance towards reunification of the Ancients with the children they lost. It was a timeless loop, that no mortal could ever survive, yet as I am not mortal, I waited through time, and hoped towards the stars for the return of my two Lords.

As the original Living Text, I hold the entries to most if not all the citizens that lived on Amoi. There were only a few people who could remove the entries, and it has eluded me for centuries. The Firm's archives are quite detailed, and it has been through them, that a better picture was painted, as to who my children were, and this has helped me in the proper course to take with regards all of you.

You my dear Sentinel, come from a lineage who's strengths were, trust, honor, and loyalty to a fault. Not only that, your family had direct access to the Royal Families of Amoi. Your Father is Lord Rene Am, Sentinel Elite, and Guardian of what is Precious. That being, the Royal Heirs of Amoi. Lord Rene was an Intellect of the highest caliber. Fiercely loyal to Lord Raimen Mink, and dear friend to Lord Kai Oskuro.

Your father oversaw the training for all Sentinels from the moment they took their first steps, to the day they were laid down to sleep in death. Lord Raimen Mink, for all his whimsical attributes, was the most intelligent Royal, ever to exist. His son, Lord Iason, reflects his father in every way, with the exception of his more jovial character.

However, it was the Mink Dynasty who first created the interstellar capabilities on Amoi. They made it possible for Amoi to become the most advanced society of the known Galaxy. So as our civilization thrived and prospered, it also needed protection.

Lord Kai Oskuro, leader of the Warrior Clans was the ultimate dignitary. His skills as communicator was uncontested. His judicial skills, were rooted upon fairness, and the scales he held were just. He appointed your father as Sentinel at Arms, though at first it was unheard of for an Intellect to hold such a position, that only a Warrior had traditionally held before.

However, upon the creation of my original purpose as the Living Text, the three Clans shared all knowledge. Your father did not care for the Elder Clans, as he saw flaws in their character, citing that their mystical powers were dark, and not to be taken lightly, and made no secret of his distrust, as my Matrix has an abundant number of log entries by your father on this very issue.

Lord Kai, respected your father's opinion, and in the days before the wars broke out, it was your father, who recommended that the young Prince, Lord Riki, become a Liaison for Amoi, and travel the many worlds, not only to open dialogue, as that was the front, no, it was to follow the paths traveled by the Elders, for he did not trust them.

Lord Riki discovered this himself upon his travels to Rhea. Your father was sent as his Sentinel at Arms; his bodyguard. As you can imagine, a Warrior Prince traveling with an Intellect as his guard, was not well received by the Elders, in particular Elder Jonas. The Elder Clans knew of young Riki's empathic abilities, and rarely traveled with him on his excursions.”

Raoul paused the report, as he thought on this information. So Riki was a threat to them even as a young man, it made sense that Lord Kai would have his father watch over Riki. This would indicate, Lord Kai trusted his father with the life of his son- his only son. Raoul looked at the image of his father. He was extremely handsome, with long flowing blond hair, the color of sunlight with a long white streak worn in a braid, he held an enchanting gaze through eyes the color of emeralds. As Raoul scrolled through the images of his father, he discovered he had a beautiful smile.

Raoul wanted to smile as he did. His life though not boring, could not be compared to the life his father had. Amoi's society had become complacent, and the spark of the Intellects had faded. He could see now, what Jupiter desired in bringing back what once was, a society of benevolent citizens. A Sentinel Elite had purpose, noble charges to protect, and a place among royalty.

Raoul rose, and walked over to the bar and served himself a glass of brandy. If his father were before him right now, what would he say? Would his father be disappointed in how far Amoi had fallen since his time? How would he view his position as Head of Intelligence? He recalled how proud Lord Kai and Lord Raimen were of their sons, such warmth was unknown to him, alien. Could he love his father, as they do?

Raoul returned to his desk and pressed the command to continue. Jupiter once again spoke in narration, as images of Ancient Amoi appeared. Raoul was shown images of his Family Estate, which was quite large, and was amused to see many fountains of all shapes and sizes. So his love of fountains was not just a whim, he mused. But then Raoul gasped as he saw for the first time, the image of a beautiful woman, strolling in a garden, and a younger woman helping her pick flowers.

“Raoul, this is your mother the Lady Annabelle, and your sister, Monique. She is your twin.”

Raoul could not believe his eyes, as his mother was indeed beautiful, with long blond hair in many spirals, and deep blue eyes, she was tall, and slender, and wore a white sun dress. His twin sister was about 16 years old at the time of the entry, and she was beautiful, with long straight hair, the color of honey, and emerald green eyes. She had faded freckles across her face, probably due to prolonged sunlight, and she held a basket filled with flowers. The two women were sitting beneath a large willow tree, and were making flower crowns.

“Raoul, at the time of this entry, your sister was helping with preparations for the Maiden's Song Gala.”

Raoul felt the sting of tears well up in his eyes, as he could not believe he had a sister, a twin no less, and a beautiful mother. He wanted more than anything to remember them now that he knew they existed. Jupiter continued her narration.

“You no doubt have many questions, with regards this information, and I will answer them, now that you have been shown this data crystal. I have shown you what was in all its beauty, but you also know what transpired when the tragic events occurred on Amoi. You must steel yourself Raoul, since you do not have total recall like Iason and Riki, it would be negligent on my part, to reveal this chapter of your life, and will save that portion as you will also be allowed to awaken on your own terms.

I know you may not agree, but you were present, when Lord Mink and the young Prince both learned of their tragic lives. I have been observing the Ancients as they awaken, since I had no data as to how they would react upon recalling their lives. Lord Kai has suffered the deepest blow, as he survived all of you, for centuries. However, your father was at his side in the end Raoul, so like Lord Kai, your father will also experience a similar nightmare.

I do not plan to reanimate the Sentinels until the Queens awaken, so you and the Firm will take the place of the Sentinels until they are awakened. For this reason, you were trained under the hand of Sir Luis Raymone. He can be extremely disciplined, however, his branch of the Firm is the closest to a Sentinel's training there was. A true Warrior rose in him, and I'm impressed at how well you two worked together.

You may also wonder about your past occupation as Sentinel Elite to Lord Iason. I know I made it clear that Omaki was to be allowed to awaken on his own, for he holds data that is missing from my Matrix. However, I had not planned on the Ancients interacting so soon with some of you. As it stands, you have been given insight as to who you were because of your chance meeting; and this forced me to move up my schedule.

I will ask that you refrain from further inquiry as to your past, as I want you to also come to this knowledge with some level of discretion. You may awaken as Iason and Riki did, although their circumstances were forced on them, they nevertheless overcame great tragedy, and thrived.

You also will rise above the heartaches of your past, it is time, and you my dear Sentinel, deserve what happiness is on the horizon.”

The data crystal stopped, and Raoul stared at the monitor in shock, and disbelief. He pressed the commands once more and looked at the images of his family. He raised his hand, and touched the screen as he smiled at the image of his twin sister Monique, and felt the tears once more well up in his eyes. As he wiped them away, he heard stirring behind him, he turned around and found Yui standing at the door to his office. His face was streaked with tears.

*~*~*

Martin felt a chill and reached to cover his body, but found he had nothing to cover himself with. As the haze of sleep cleared, he awoke to the sounds of someone moaning. He focused on the direction the mournful sounds, and in the darkness, he could see Jake moving restlessly in his cot. Martin tried to move, and felt sharp pains throughout his back, as the sting of the whip reminded him of where they were. Fighting off his own injuries, he now worried for his friend, whose moans grew louder, as he also was cold, and in pain. He knew they had been given Accelerator, as the bleeding had stopped, and it was obvious, they were given first aid.

Martin slowly moved his legs, trying to get up to see how Jake was. He was on his stomach, and the best he could do was try to roll off the cot without opening up his own wounds. He figured if he was to fall, he had only a short distance to the floor, so he drew in his breath, and hung his legs over the edge of the cot and pushed away with his hands, until his body hung halfway off the cot, onto his knees. He reached over in the darkness until he touched Jake's shoulder; Jake trembled as his body was cold, and his forehead was perspiring, showing signs of a fever, perhaps an infection was looming, as he recalled the filthy conditions of the room they were tortured in, and the cell did not smell any cleaner.

“Jake? Are you ok? It's me Martin...Jake, please wake up.”

Martin could hear Jake's breathing and knew he was laboring, as his body continued to tremble. Jake did not respond, but still moaned in his agony. Martin decided to lay next to him in hopes of at least using their body's warmth to keep each other from going further into shock.

“Sorry my friend, but I'm going to have to move you a bit if I'm going to keep you warm. Looks like we're on our own right now, and I know it will be only a matter of time, before we're missed.”

Martin reached over and pushed Jake's legs towards the cell wall, and then his shoulders. It was going to be a painstakingly difficult thing on his part, and could feel the sting of his wounds opening up. With one final push, he moved Jake's hips; now he would only need to climb up, the same way he climbed down.

“I'm glad you are not conscious right now Jake, I envy your slumber, but I also know if we don't get warm, we'll not fare well.”

Martin slowly raised his body with his arms and in one long and deliberate move, raised one leg, then the other, as he let gravity do the rest, and landed behind Jake, who just grunted his discomfort. Martin felt lightheaded, and as his body came to rest behind Jake's, he pressed his body close to his.

“I hope you and I awaken dear friend, for there must be an idiot running this ship, if he's going to let us die in such a way. I would have loved to have seen Lord Iason just once more...”

Martin didn't finish his last thought, as he passed out. In his mind, he reached out in the darkness, and found the memory of Iason in his awakened state, remembering how beautiful he looked, and how the love surging from his body washed over him with so much warmth. He felt he might never see such a sight again. If only he was like the young Prince, with power that could reach across space and time; if only he could pierce the golden veil of their mind's eye, and call out to them...but would they hear such a quiet echo coming from someone as insignificant as he.

“Young Prince, would you even hear my thoughts?”

*~*~*

“Commander Darius, we are nearing the outer beacons, it looks as if they are heading to Aristia to refuel, and pick up supplies. We intercepted a message stating they were to wait for instructions there.”

The navigator's voice was heard over the intercom in the early hours of the morning; Darius was lying next to Victor, who was sleeping soundly after a night of intense lovemaking. It had been too long since they were locked in a lover's embrace, though it was due to Victor, who never stopped pursuing him. It was this drive, that compelled him to become the son he failed to be.

It was four in the morning, and Darius never found sleep, as this night was like every night since he began his mission. He could not get the image of Martin out of his head. The young man and his team mattered to him, and he knew this smelled of a larger plot, and if the talk of Amoian Queens had anything to do with Iason, he figured Martin had been targeted.

“Very well Andrew, keep me posted.”

Darius got out of bed and got dressed, there would be no sleep for him yet again, and he needed to figure out his next move. If they were going to Aristia, then he would search for clues as to where Martin was taken, surely his mercenary background would be useful, but instead thought of heading to Iason's Estate. He felt he needed to inform Iason of what had transpired, and using an open channel, no matter how secure, ran the risk of his ship being detected. Iason had technology on his side, and his Estate had a direct line to Jupiter.

Darius whispered to himself, “I must find out what the story is behind the Queens and this treasure, and what does Martin know?” He was sure Martin didn't know anything more than he knew, and he knew quite a bit.

Victor stirred in bed, and whispered. “Can't sleep again love? Would you like me to give you something to help you rest?” Victor sat up and began to dress. “What time is it anyway?”

“It is early, and please go back to sleep Victor, I need to work some things out in my head.”

“Hmm, ok..”

Victor plopped back down on the pillow having done a poor job of buttoning his shirt, quickly falling back to sleep. Darius smiled and covered him. He walked out of his quarters, and headed for the galley and a cup of coffee. The ship was quiet, as the crew was still asleep having traveled with little rest. His new crew was a mixture of old veterans from his previous mission as a mercenary, and a few men he had picked up here and there.

His new found morality made it difficult to find new crewmen, as his mercenary ways had taken a change for the better since he and his father mended their differences. Some of the new crew came with his father's recommendation, so he felt confident he could trust them. The men who remained with him saw the mighty power of Iason and Riki firsthand, and knew that having a connection to these Ancients could be beneficial, if not lucrative, so decided to stay with the Commander.

Darius sat near a terminal and pressed the keys to pull up the information regarding the ship they were following. It was an older merchant supply ship, registered to an import/export company out of the Alpha Quadrant, under the name of one Lord Bastian. “Advance Securities and Technology?” Darius wondered what type of technology this Lord Bastian was involved in that included kidnapping?

Darius knew that Iason and Riki were being seen as a new super power in every corner of the known universe, as word of their new found abilities were both a marvel and a threat. Amoi was already ahead of the game with Jupiter's sentient mind, and now with the Head of the Syndicate and his lover and newly Crowned Prince at his side, many felt the shift of power sway further towards Amoi, and it's network of planets.

Iason and Riki were a threat to monopolize the Black Market, as many now flocked to do business with Amoi's leading Blondie, for everything Iason touched turned to gold. If this talk of the Queen's Treasure was the subject of some plot, Darius knew he should do all he could, to discover it's meaning.

The ship would soon fall out of warp and enter Aristia's territories, which included a cluster uninhabited planets near the entrance to the Path of the Ancients. Aristia was located near the beacons that lined the second entrance to this part of space, Rhea being the third and the farthest, as Amoi guarded the first and original entrance, which was always sealed and protected by Jupiter.

Aristia had never been inclined to use this passage, as it was well known that that part of space was unstable and dangerous. Aristia being a peaceful civilization kept to itself, and was weary of political strife, as its own society was governed by a Monarchy, and was well respected in the Trade Network. Iason had done much to open trade agreements in this sector, and was well respected by it's members.

Darius made preparations to dock on Aristia's temporary station on Isle de Dio, the Capital of Aristia. The merchant ship had docked a few berths away, and he would send men to do reconnaissance. It was dawn, and Aristia's markets would soon be bustling with merchants selling their wares. He did love the simplicity of this peaceful world. He would take a shuttle to Iason's Estate, and contact the Firm on a secure line.

*~*~*

Iason slept soundly with Riki's body against his own after enjoying their sexual experience in their mind's eye. When Omaki and Argent faded out in exhaustion, he and Riki continued their conversation over what had occurred. They both felt confident, that Omaki would soon awaken, and now knew that Argent would also find his path to awakening. Iason wondered about this young Lord, as he took to their mind's eye with no real difficulties.

Or perhaps it was his intelligence, after all, he was quite educated, when compared to Omaki, who took nothing seriously. But then again, this was Omaki's act. He was not to be dismissed as a loving deviant, who loves the pleasures of the flesh so much, he built a tower just to suit those carnal impulses of the Elite, and the well to do Dignitaries that visited Amoi. Jupiter made that clear in their briefing.

Omaki had enough intelligence to remove entries from Jupiter's Matrix, and know the possible location of the lost Maidens. So Omaki had more than sex on his perverted mind, and now proved to be a hard nut to crack, at which Riki responded that Omaki was fooling everyone, including Jupiter.

Iason felt the sudden movement of the silk sheets, as they were pulled away from his body. He felt the cool air on his body, and while half awake, reached for them. Riki was in the habit of pulling them off as he moved in his sleep, but this was not the case.

Riki suddenly began to twitch, and this woke Iason who tightened his embrace, fearing he may be having a bad dream. After all, this night proved to be overwhelming to them both, but it was Riki's heightened sensitivity to the thoughts of others that was taxed.

Iason worried as Riki began to mumble out loud, and suddenly began transformed as he slept. Iason knew this only occurred when threatened, so he decided to see into his mind, to find out what was causing him to transform. He didn't want Riki to be startled in his transformed state and strike out. As Iason walked in Riki's mind, he heard someone speaking.

“Young Prince, would you even hear my thoughts?”

Iason could hear the soft echo throughout a vast sea of darkness. There stood Riki staring into the void, as he was trying to listen carefully. The voice sounded like a quiet fountain bubbling softly, serenely. Iason walked up to Riki and touched his shoulder. Riki turned to face Iason.

“What is it Riki? I noticed you mumbling in your sleep, and now find you here before this darkness.”

Riki listened once again. “Do you hear that Iason? I know this voice...I do, but I can't find the direction in which it's coming from.” Riki kicked up his tempest, and attempted to blow the darkness away, after all, it worked once before with Iason.

Iason seeing Riki attempt this, also transformed, and lit the darkness with his energy, but as he did, the echo seemed to move further away, making Riki bolt in the direction he could now sense.

“I am nobody, insignificant and alone, but I wish I could see your smile once more my Lord Iason...”

Riki glanced at Iason who heard this quite clearly now, and gave chase behind Riki. They seem to run forever, and each step forward could not catch up to the voice that was beginning to fade.

“Iason! Its getting further away, what should we do?” Riki tried to reach out with his hand, as if the one before him was moments away from disappearing.

“Riki, try to focus on the voice, amplify what you are feeling!”

Riki reached out and then felt himself drop into the dark void. Iason panicked ,and with a giant leap hurled his body forward, and grabbed hold of Riki's other hand as they both fell into the void.

“Ah! Iason, where the hell are we? What is going on?”

Iason clung tightly to Riki, fearing he would have been lost in the darkness he knew well, for it was similar to what he experienced when he was in the sea of darkness not so long ago.

“Riki, I believe we are in the mind of someone in deep despair. I know this darkness, and I fear someone we are acquainted with is reaching out to us, -me actually- but you, my love, felt their presence. Let's see where this pit ends, perhaps we can lighten the path.”

Riki nodded, and as they continued to fall, they both began to glow softly lighting the darkness. As they reached the bottom, they landed softly, and found themselves in a cell, dark and filthy. Riki turned and looked at the two cots, one stained with much blood, and the other with two small bodies huddled together.

Iason walked forward and as he neared, Riki felt the sudden pangs of unbearable pain, and looked at Iason.

“Iason! I can't get any closer, there is great pain here, and suffering!”

Iason returned to Riki's side, and with his strength, pulled Riki up towards the light and awareness. They both woke up in a start, their hearts were beating fiercely, and Riki was trembling. Iason embraced him, as Riki felt the sting of a familiar pain.

“Ow! Bloody Hell?!”

Iason saw Riki arch his back, and moan. Iason saw light markings on his back and gasped. Riki looked as if he had been whipped. Slowly, the marks faded away, and Riki once again breathed normally.

“Riki, are you alright? You had marks on your back, as if you had been whipped!”

Riki rolled over and sighed. “Yeah, I remember them well Master” Riki teased. He smiled at Iason who did not return the smile.

“Riki, this is a serious matter, whoever this was, knew you, or at least knew to reach out knowing you would be with me. I don't feel what you feel, but I knew you were suffering and I could not wait another moment longer, I had to pull us out.”

“I was caught off guard, but I felt their pain, and their suffering Iason. Someone whipped these two, and one of them reached out to me, but remember what he said?”

“I am nobody, insignificant and alone, but I wish I could see your smile once more my Lord Iason...”

This person is in some prison or something, it was filthy too! How are we suppose to find out who they were?”

Iason thought on this a bit more. “Well, let's think this through. This person knew we have this power, and knew if they could, would be able to reach us. They feel insignificant and alone, he said.”

Iason's expression showed concern for this poor soul, as if his heart had been wounded. This person felt that just by thinking upon him would find him comfort in his dire situation. This was a sobering thought to Iason and made him feel helpless.

“I do know that he was far away Iason, and he knew you intimately, if he resigned to his fate with you in his thoughts. We have to find out who they are.”

“Yes, I don't know how we'll be able to discover their identity, but I'll contact Raoul first thing in the morning to see if there is anything he can find out for us.”

Riki felt Iason's sadness, and reached out to him. “I'm sure we'll be able to figure this out soon. Tomorrow is going to be a huge deal, and Omaki is on the verge of being awakened. I think once this Gala is over, we can do something about these two, without too much interference.”

The two laid back down to attempt to catch a few more hours of sleep, as they both knew they would probably need it.

Meanwhile...

Martin stirred in his sleep, he dreamed the most wonderful dream and felt as if he was in the presence of the Iason's warmth. He thought he heard Iason and Riki's voices in the cell, but that was ridiculous. Iason could not have been there, or he would have been saved by now. Martin's eyes became filled with tears, as not too long ago, both he and Jake were in their presence, enjoying their company at the Estate. It all seemed like a world away, and so long ago.

~*~*~

Yui wiped the tears from his face and ran to Raoul who had stood up upon seeing him standing at the door. Raoul held him tight in his arms, not sure how Yui would take this new information. It could be that he would be happy to know his Master and lover was an Ancient, with family ties, and perhaps a wife or lover.

“Yui, what is it love? Why the tears?”

Yui tightened his grip on Raoul's robe, then looked up with teary eyes.

“Raoul, who were those people? Did I hear right, was that your family?” Yui searched Raoul's eyes for answers. Perhaps they were his wife and daughter. That thought did not sit well with him, feeling a bit jealous of this possibility, but he overlooked the fact that even if this was so, Raoul was an Ancient.

“Yui, I received this new information from Jupiter. She had the Firm prepare this for me, as I've learned tonight that I, like Iason and Riki am an Ancient, though I don't have my memories. What you saw were images of my mother and twin sister.”

Yui's face lit up with this new information, and relieved to learn they were not his wife and daughter. Nevertheless, this would change things for Raoul, and he knew that like Iason and Riki, he had a whole other life thousands of years prior to his existence.

“Twin?” Yui grinned, “A twin sister? How wonderful Raoul, what is her name?”

“Monique was her name. This is an image of her when she was 16 I believe. The woman was my mother, Annabelle. I had no idea I once had a family, nor can I recall them. I look at their smiles, and the beauty of their faces, and can't help but feel lost. I have no memories, I feel like a cipher, a shell of a man, with no ties to the past but what is in this data crystal.”

Yui reached around placing his arms around his waist. He felt the sadness of Raoul's words, as he tried to imagine what that must be like. Unlike him, he was raised by a mother and father before becoming his Attendant. He had a background filled with love and a future with purpose, though nothing compared to a Blondie. He held his position with pride and much love for the Master he served.

“I don't think you are lost Raoul, you just don't have your memories yet. Perhaps you will awaken like Lord Mink and the young Prince. Surely, that will happen to you as well right?”

“I don't know Yui, Jupiter brought me back because I was a Sentinel, a bodyguard for Iason and the Royal Family. My father was the Sentinel at Arms for Lord Oskuro, and served with him during the 500 Years of Woe, though I now know why some call it the 500 Years of Sorrow.”

Raoul pressed some keys, and the image of his father appeared. Yui's mouth dropped as he looked at his father's image and looked at Raoul, who looked so much like him. In his mind, he imagined Raoul aged as his father. He would still be just as handsome, and distinguished as the image he was looking at.

“Oh my, he was quite a handsome man, how long did he serve the Royal Family? I know the Ancients live very long lives, and if he served Lord Kai, he must have been several hundred years old no?”

Raoul looked at Yui with much love, as he could now see that he was trying to undo the sadness he felt. While it was true, the Intellects lived long lives, all the Ancients of that time did, he couldn't help but feel for his young lover, who would not live nearly as long. And that alone, made him want to love Yui that much more. He sat down near the fireplace, extending his arm and calling Yui over to him. Yui walked over and climbed upon his lap, as Raoul wrapped his arms around him.

“Yui, I don't know what will become of me, or even if I'll ever awaken like Iason or Riki. Jupiter did not reanimate us like she did them. She said that with the return of the Royal family, they would be used as a catalyst to awaken those in key positions and also those closest to Iason and Riki. But there is always the chance that we may never awaken.”

This made Yui quiet. He felt that it would be wonderful if Raoul could recall his family, and his past. To have something solid in his life, other than a restored Attendant, and a kitten. Raoul deserved much in the life he led, and the position he held. Much more...”

“I think it will be just a matter of time Raoul, I feel you will awaken.” Yui paused, then, “But would you still see me as important to you....would I ...matter?”

Yui once again searched Raoul's eyes, perhaps looking for the answer in those beautiful green eyes. Would Raoul leave him if he recalled a lover, or a wife? Yui sighed.

“I can't think of my life without you my love. You have given my life meaning, especially after Iason's rejection. But that was never meant to be, because I now understand his relationship with Riki went back thousands of years. I can't even imagine competing.”

Raoul caught his own words, as he looked at Yui. This is what Yui meant- what if he recalled a significant other? Then Lord Kai came into his thoughts. Both he and Lord Raimen hinted that they were intimately involved with him at one time.

“Yui, I realize now, that I spoke too soon, for I don't know anything about my former life, except what I learned tonight. Even Jupiter indicated, I would be awakened naturally, and the only reason I was even giving this glimpse was because...well, I met Lord Kai Oskuro and Lord Raimen Mink, and they knew who I was, whereas, I did not know them.”

Yui, felt his heart skip a beat. So there might be someone else. He knew this could be a possibility, and he could not do anything about that. After all, that was over ten thousand years ago. But still.

“I don't know what to make of this, as I don't recall them at all. I was a Sentinel, and even now I'm only learning about what that truly meant. But I do love you, and that will never change, you are my cherished one. Would you be willing to accept the fact that I may mean something to them?”

Yui lowered his eyes. He knew he could not compete with the likes of Lord Kai or Lord Raimen. He'd seen their images from the data base Jupiter released. They were stunning, and he was just an Attendant; really, a nobody. He made to climb down off Raoul's lap, when Raoul took his chin and turned it back to face him. He kissed him softly, forcing his lips to part, and he drank from his lips deliberately holding the kiss.

“You will never be anything less than my love. You and I don't know what is to be, regarding my past life Yui, but know this- I hold you dear to my heart, you have become my life. I love and adore you, and... you matter. To me you do matter.”

Raoul placed his arms beneath Yui, and lifted him up as he kissed him gently once more. He walked out of his office, and made for the master bedroom. He placed Yui gently on the bed and removed his robe. He lay next to Yui, and gently touched his cheek with his hand. Yui placed his hands around Raoul's neck and pulled him down taking his mouth eagerly.

Raoul placed one hand behind Yui's head and held the kiss. With his other hand, he caressed Yui's body, feeling the passion grow with each breath they took. Yui squirmed beneath his body, as the tall Blondie now lay on top of him, forcing his legs apart. Raoul kissed his face, tenderly wiping the tears that formed in Yui's eyes.

“Shh, my love, no tears. This is what you do to me Yui, feel my body press against yours, this is what your body makes me do.”

Raoul felt Yui grind his hips against his own, and felt his cock stiffen as Yui pressed his cock against his. Raoul moved his hand beneath Yui's ass and pulled his leg up pressing his cock near his entrance. The silk trousers strained against their erections, as both Lord and lover felt the urgency to feel their skin press against their own.

Raoul then sat up and tore off Yui's silk trousers, then his own, taking in Yui's beautifully restored cock, standing erect and throbbing with anticipation. Raoul's own cock was equally aroused, as he once again lay on top Yui, and began to kiss him passionately. Yui gasped, as Raoul gently bit his neck, and then headed down to his nipples, gently biting them as he continued to grind his hips against Yui's.

“Oh, Raoul, I want you so much! Let me feel you, all of you!”

Raoul smiled at Yui's rather excited request, and placed his hands on Yui's wrists, pinning him down while he looked down on him. Raoul held himself above him, his long blond hair fell around him and tickled Yui's nose.

“Is this so? You want me that much dear one? I think I would rather enjoy your charms a bit more now that I have you pinned and desiring my cock pressed deep within you.”

Raoul smiled teasingly, and it felt good. He went back down, still holding Yui pinned and nibbled on his chest once more, moving lower and blazing a trail of kisses and love bites here and there. Yui gasped as he headed down towards his hips and raised them in anticipation of Raoul's lingual skills.

“Mmm, you are eager aren't you? What will you do if I do this?”

Raoul then nuzzled Yui's cock and gently kissed the tip, tasting his eager young lover's sex that pooled at the head. Yui moaned as Raoul continued to lick his cock from the base to the tip, then after a few moments, he released Yui's wrists, and pushed his legs towards his chest, and began to gently tease his perineum as Yui moaned his delight.

“Oh...Raoul...uhn, that feels so good.”

Yui gasped as Raoul dipped his tongue slowly and tasted him, which made chills run down his spine, as Yui's cries made his cock throb painfully against the sheets beneath him. Raoul could not wait any longer, as he now prepared Yui for penetration. He dipped one finger, then a second, then as he gazed into Yui's eyes, he slowly pulled them out, and pressed his cock to his entrance and slowly penetrated.

“Ah! Oh! Raoul! mmm....oh...please...don't stop!”

Raoul continued to press forward, as he watched Yui's face contort in blissful ecstasy. His cock bobbed before his face, and he took one hand and stroked it as he began to pull out and press in once again.

“Oh Yui, you complete me...I love you so much, my Yui...you will always be mine.”

Raoul took hold of Yui's thighs, pulling on them, and now eagerly thrust into his lover, as Yui opened his eyes, and returned the gaze. His body was not his, but belonged to Raoul, and he would eagerly surrender it for all eternity. Raoul was true to him, even if he knew that perhaps there might be a lover out there in the past, or near in the future, that would be looking for him. He was not going to give him over without a fight, though he knew he was just an Attendant.

“I am yours Raoul, I have loved you all my life, and I will love you until my last breath. Do with me as you will, for I will always be the one who loves you, now and forever, come what may.”

Raoul moaned as Yui's words penetrated his mind, and his heart. “Lay on your side Yui, I wish to hold you...”

Yui laid on his side, and Raoul laid behind him, pulling his left leg up and penetrating him once more. He pulled Yui tight and kissed his neck, biting him gently as he thrust eagerly into him. Yui turned his head and with his left arm pulled Raoul towards his lips and kissed him passionately. Raoul placed his hand around his cock and began to stoke him as he continued to thrust.

Yui broke away and cried out as Raoul's strokes pushed him to the edge, making the excited Blondie grunt and cry out as Yui ejaculated, followed by Raoul. Raoul pressed his cock in as deep as he could, feeling Yui's tight grip as he rode the waves of his release. Yui's cock had erupted in Raoul's hand, and had sprayed against his chest.

Raoul pulled himself and Yui against the headboard, Raoul lay back on the soft satin pillows. He pulled Yui back onto his chest, his head resting against Raoul's neck. His cock, while more relaxed, still remained withing Yui's inner sanctum. Yui's legs were spread and his cock twitched softly, with the residual spasm of their intense lovemaking. Raoul wrapped his arms around Yui's chest, and softly thrust his hips up, feeling Yui's body stiffen, as the stimulation felt wonderful. Yui reached above his shoulders and stroked Raoul's hair.

“Hmm, that feels wonderful Raoul, I love to feel you pressed against me...will we always have...this?”

Yui's words, struck a nerve, and Raoul felt a surge of love go from his heart to those whispered words.

“Yui, I will love you like this always...”

Raoul kept thrusting softly until Yui's moans once again became loud with his excitement.

“Yui, I desire to feel you pressed inside me now...”

Yui stopped squirming, then slowly sat up as Raoul pushed him up. He grind against Raoul for a few moments, enjoying the soft moaning that came from behind him, and when he felt Raoul's cock harden with his excitement, he pulled out and turned around as he lifted Raoul's legs and pressed them to his chest, exposing the rather large erection of his lover's arousal.

Yui pressed against Raoul's entrance and penetrated slowly, enjoying the gasps and moans coming from Raoul. Yui knew his every sound, and loved how he parted his lips and smiled slightly as he thrust against him. Raoul's excitement was apparently too much for Yui, as his inner muscles began to pull against his cock. Being sensitive after many hours of lovemaking, Yui knew he would not last long, which suited Raoul perfectly.

“Oh, Yui! That is perfect! Let me have all of you! Don't hold back my love, I want you to take me hard, I want to feel you completely enraptured as I feel this very moment....ah..that's it!”

Yui began to cry out as his essence rose and his release was imminent. He loved watching Raoul come undone by his rapture. Yui reached for Raoul's stiff member, and began to stroke him at a fever pace, and as Raoul ejaculated, Yui cried out his release. Both breathed hard, as the many sessions and emotional declarations of their hearts that night, finally took their toll. Yui rose and retrieved some warmed moistened towels by the beside table, and cleaned himself off. He then began to clean Raoul up, when he felt Raoul's hand stay his.

“Yui, let me do that...you are not an Attendant right now, you are my lover. And I will remind you of this from this moment onward.”

Yui smiled as Raoul took the towel and cleaned up. He then pulled Yui close and covered both their bodies with the sheets, as exhaustion finally closed their eyes, and they gave in to sleep.

~*~*~

The night slowly gave in to first light, and the thoughts of many were heavy in their minds. Much was about to happen, and many knew not what fate was preparing for them. The sounds of sweet lovemaking was silenced with dreams of passion, and the warm embrace they shared together.

But not all dreams were pleasant, as Iason woke from his trek into darkness. His heart was heavy, as he did not get to see who it was that lay in that cot, in that dismal cell. But he did know that whoever it was, Riki's empathic powers were affected to the point of manifesting their injuries. These two bodies were tortured, and suffering. Iason saw this in Riki's eyes.

Iason was enjoying a light breakfast, as he let Riki sleep in, clearly exhausted by the evening's happenings. Omaki's romp in their mind's eye was pleasurable, no doubt, and Riki's quick action to Omaki's confusion, prevented any trauma to Omaki. It was clear that Omaki was recalling more, as scenes of Ancient Amoi stirred something in their mischievous friend.

Iason felt that the Gala that night, would prove to be the right environment for Omaki to be exposed to more stimulation. He only hoped, that the notoriously naughty Blondie, would be the perfect host, as the list of invitees read like the who's who of Dignitaries and Elite. Iason was pleased to learn that all of Amoi would be sharing in the festivities, and commoner and noble alike would be present.

Iason watched the monitors to Lady Erin's suite, her vitals were steady, and all was well. He felt a surge of excitement thinking she was to grace Amoi with her presence, and simultaneously, turn Amoi on it's head with her Warrior's strength. Riki just beamed with pride, as he spoke of his mother. The memories were returning to him, slowly and each day he recalled more than the last.

Iason felt a twinge of pain in his heart, as he thought about his past life, when he desperately searched throughout the stars, for Riki. He knew the moment of his death was buried deep in his mind, and both he and Riki had yet to truly discuss it. It was a sorrow, that perhaps, was best forgotten.

Riki stirred in bed, and Iason knew he was probably picking up his thoughts. He quickly thought of more pleasant things, like seeing the many faces of all those attending the briefing the night before, when Omaki was revealed to be the one holding part of Jupiter's missing entries. He laughed to himself, now that he thought about it, especially Raoul's reaction.

Raoul, his Sentinel. It made sense to him now, why Raoul was so dominating towards him. He was only expressing his possessiveness, because it was natural for him to feel he was to protect and claim him. Though Raoul and he crossed that line at the Academy, and became lovers. But as Jupiter stated, he was acting on his natural course, and it was logical.

There would always be a part of him that would love Raoul, but it paled by comparison to what he felt for Riki. And this was logical to his mind also, as Riki was always meant to become his lover. His attraction to the little scruffy mongrel from the slums, was always a diamond in the rough. His body could not help the desire to hold him tight, and to love him so passionately.

As this thought swam in his head, Riki came up from behind and wrapped his arms around Iason's neck giving him a kiss on the cheek.

“Good morning my love, how do you feel this morning?”

Riki sat next to him and watched Iason pour him a glass of orange juice. Some things never changed, he thought to himself, as he raised the glass and smiled at Iason. Iason winked at him, and continued to read the monitors on the Lady Erin.

“How is she doing Iason? Has there been any changes?”

“Well, I would think you would know best love. I do see she has more activity in her higher brain functions, which means she is beginning to sense things.”

Riki laid his head on the table. He looked as if he had not slept at all. His mind was a blur, and all the sexual escapades in and out of his mind had taxed him.

“My head feels like it's been through a blender, I can't believe Omaki's perverted stamina!” Riki looked up to see Iason shake his head. “But what really kicked my ass, was being whipped in my fucking head! I couldn't move this morning, and my back is killing me!”

“Yes, that was quite an experience you had last night. I'm puzzled as to who it was that was reaching out to us. If it weren't for the agony you experienced, we might have discovered who it was. I've placed a call to Raoul, and I'm expecting his response. I don't dare risk you again Riki, it was dreadful to see your back in such a state.”

“Tell me about it! But, I want to find out anyway. I don't know, I felt really bad for whoever it was because, they felt as if they were not important. Like they did not matter in life or in death. I think that if they reach out again, I will steel myself for whatever comes my way.”

Iason didn't like the sound of that, remembering how Riki suffered his injures, when he was taken. But he knew better than to try to prevent Riki from doing as he spoke. He was truly noble...a Prince in every sense of the word.

“Well, as soon as this Gala is behind us, we should find out as much as possible, perhaps by then, Raoul would have found something out.”

Riki rolled his eyes, as he thought about being placed on display, but was privately, relishing the fact that everyone who at one time saw him as a mere Pet, was now kissing his ass. Moreover, that Iason and he were going to be introduced as Lord Heirs. Of course, he knew his father and Lord Raimen, would probably have the hall in stitches, it could not be helped, as he now recalled they were always comical at social events. His father needed a night out, and as far away from the thoughts of what was lost.

“Iason, do you think, my father will be alright tonight? I mean, he and your father will probably recognize many of the Elite. How are we suppose to prepare for that?” Will they be ok?”

Iason thought about Lord Kai. No doubt he would recall many, and this may be confusing to him, because, to him, some of them, well, they have long since died. Not only that, he more than likely knew how they died. This would be a test for the Warrior Lord, and it was good that his father would be there to lighten the load.

“I think that we worry too much my love. If I know our fathers, they will have the guests dancing their feet off, and drinking to the break of dawn. As I recall, we always seem to stumble upon their naughtiness, at least that has been my curse.”

Iason sighed, as he knew they would more than likely spike the punch and drag off some poor helpless person behind closed doors and have their way with him. Riki glanced at Iason, as the tall Blondie was transparent in his thoughts, and he began to giggle.

“What do you find so amusing my Prince? That our fathers will no doubt embarrass us before the night is over, or that I will have the unfortunate luck of walking in on it?”

“I think, we should let them loose and bring some class back to Amoi. The Elite are too stuck up anyway, they need to be brought down a peg or two. Besides, our fathers will soon have these pampered miscreants bowing down before them in one way or another...if you get my drift?”

Riki could not help but tease Iason on their father's sexual prowess, and this made him laugh out loud as Iason let his head hit the table. Finding the handsome Blondie acting like a teenager afraid of being embarrassed by his parents perversions, made Riki look forward to the night's festivities even more.

*~*~*

The wind blew before him, as he walked on in a desert with no end in sight. He looked lost in his train of thought, as the force of the wind kicked up the sand, and stung his face. The sun was beating down on him, and the canister of water he held in his hand had gone dry several days earlier. He didn't know how far he'd walked, but felt a surge of pride, knowing he had completed his task.

How many months, years, decades had passed? He looked far off into the chain of mountains that seemed years away, and knew he would never see them again. His ship was shot down on his final trip, a firefight ensued, which he won, and was saved an early grave; though now he was not so sure he got the better outcome. He knew this was the end, and no one would know of his passing, or where he lay dying.

Omaki looked at his hand, he wore Lady Yuri's ring on his smallest finger, as he recalled her hands were so tiny, and frail. “I have done as you commanded my Lady, rest in peace, for I have not failed you. But you will get my bill, nonetheless!” Omaki shook his fist in the air, and collapsed on the desert floor, his eyes grew dark, closing forever.

“Omaki? Dearest, wake up! Please love, wake up!”

Argent shook Omaki's body, as he found him gasping for breath, and shaking his head. His body tense as if he were in much pain. Argent had been watching Omaki since their tryst inside Iason and Riki's realm. He woke up a few hours after, with Omaki at his side, holding him tight. It was an experience he would not soon forget, however, he did notice Omaki's behavior had changed once the images of Ancient Amoi were before them.

He loved all he witnessed, and felt the burning desire to see much more. His life was surrounded by the past, but it was a silent tale told from the dust of relics, and centuries old remains, and much folklore. Something as simple as a child's sun dial in a park, made the pores of his body open, and chills run down his spine. And like an addiction to drugs, Argent was hooked, For nothing he had seen up to this moment of his young life, could equal the glimpse of the world of which Iason and Riki brought to life in one night.

Omaki began to wake up as Argent's concerned tone echoed in his head. His mind was on fire, as he realized he had a pounding headache. His body felt as if it had run a marathon, which pretty much was correct, as he and Argent had quite a night. He stretched long, and yawned, only to feel his body was in no mood for much activity.

“Hm...ow! What in heaven's name did you do to me my love? I feel as if you've taken my body and done what you pleased.” Omaki grinned at Argent who was still staring at him with reserved caution.

“I couldn't wake you Omaki, and you were moaning loudly. Then you began to tremble as if you were having a seizure! It was horrible to see you non-responsive.”

“Well, if I was moaning, it was probably because I was revisiting a most wonderful dream, where I think you and I were inside the mind of Iason and Riki. I've been there once before you know, and Iason told me there was an adjusting of our equilibrium, and a residual side-effect that feels like being struck with a hammer..or something like that.”

Argent nodded, as Riki had said the same thing in their mind's eye. “Oh my, so this was not just some crazy dream? I must say, I thought I had lost my mind for a moment and somehow fantasized the whole thing.” Argent lied. “Then, yes, I also felt the side-effects when I woke up, but surely, our experience does not explain, you're thrashing about. Can you recall what you were dreaming about?”

Argent hoped to see if Omaki would recall anything new, although, if he did, he didn't know what he would do with the information, other than report to Jupiter.

“To tell you the honest truth, I don't recall much, except that I was thirsty? It makes no sense to me, except that I want to drink the largest glass of water available!” Omaki laughed at his own words, “Hey! What do you mean you fantasized? Are you telling me you have a thing for the Prince?!”

Omaki feigned offense, watching Argent blush instantly, as Omaki gave him a side-ways glance.

“N-no! Of course not! I meant, that the young Prince and Lord Iason are quite...handsome, and they were so ….open...with their ...their...”

“Calm down, my love, I know exactly what you saw, and felt, and what you mean. Iason is practically sex candy for the eyes, and Riki, is stunning in appearance, no? His dark eyes are like a moonless night. Can't say I've seen the likes of them anywhere.”

Omaki winked at the still blushing Argent. After all, Omaki was the only man he'd ever loved, though, he did not hesitate to let Riki take him in the fever of the moment. After all, it was only a dream, no harm could come of that right?

“Yes, they are quite attractive, though, I never thought we would be having sex with them in the open, you know?” Argent couldn't help but grin as Omaki licked his lips seductively. “So you recall nothing about your dream except that we had sex with the Heirs of Amoi, and you waking up thirsty? Somehow, that does not surprise me.”

Argent smiled, but thought about this, and made a mental note. Omaki's remains were found in the desert according to Jupiter, and that may be a memory. He thought about the old archives, and Omaki's life, which he read extensively. Omaki's life had been documented up until he disappeared and was never heard of again.

“Or, it could be that we drank so much last night, and I'm parched! I imagine you had a pleasant experience? I must say, Iason never ceases to surprise me. After all, I had been hounding him for ages, wanting to see him and Riki together..and out of nowhere he says: 'I'll grant you this one time only, so make it count,' Can you imagine my delight, to see you being taken by the Prince! You were hot! I loved watching you so excited, and gazing at me with your eyes all sexy and seductive.” Omaki reached up and pulled Argent down, taking his lips in a deep kiss.

“Mm, I feel all aroused just thinking of you naked and wet in that hot tub, perhaps we should court them for a second round?” Omaki teased.

Argent closed his eyes, and imagined that moment in his mind, with Riki taking him as Omaki thrust over and over into Iason. Iason was heavenly, and his passionate kisses with Riki was just too much for him even to imagine awake! He moaned in Omaki's mouth, as the two enjoyed the kiss.

“Now Omaki, we have a million things to do, and we have a Gala tonight to prepare for, so we can't lounge around in bed all day! The hall will be filled with hundreds of people looking to us for direction, so we have to get up!”

Omaki then pulled Argent down onto the bed and began to nibble on his neck, which made Argent giggle and try to break free from his embrace. “So! You seem to still have enough energy to be all aroused this morning. Was your soreness, limited only to the dream we participated in?”

As Argent teased him, Omaki felt a chill run down his spine, as the feeling of hearing Argent say those words gripped his heart like a cold hand. He stared into Argent's eyes, as he gazed back deeply into his own.

“W-what did you say?” Omaki released Argent's wrists, and grew serious. Omaki's eyes dilated, and turned a familiar crystal blue. Argent gasped, as this time, he saw this up close.

“Omaki? Are you alright?”

“You said this before, did you not?” Omaki seemed confused, and as quickly as he spoke, his eyes returned back to their deep blue shade. “I guess, I'm still feeling the after effects of this wild night we had, pay no mind to me. But you're right, we have much to do, and a billion people we need to host!!”

Argent smiled, as he watched Omaki's eyes dance with excitement, and his beautiful smile had returned. For a moment, Omaki's eyes seemed almost filled with sorrow. He was certain, this change of appearance was due to his mind recalling fragments of his past. They now came often, and disappear just as fast. They were getting close.

They dressed and sat at the dining table enjoying the tranquility that came with their company. Of course that was short- lived, for no sooner had Omaki taken a bite of his buttered toast, did the communication center light up. Ru came into the dining hall, and indicated Jupiter was on the line.

Omaki sighed, as he rose from his seat, and walked over to the communication monitor. Argent began to drink his coffee when his wrist communicator lit up. It was the caterer with last minute details, and once that call ended, a long stream of calls followed. It was going to be one of those days.

“Jupiter, to what do I owe the pleasure of your communication so early this morning, were you afraid I'd runaway?” Omaki teased. Jupiter was in Lady Erin's appearance, and this made Omaki pause, and stumble with his speech. “D-do you wish to c-cancel? I don't think Lord J-Jensen will like that after all the work we've done..”

Jupiter, being a machine, sentient or no, caught every movement of Omaki's face, every nuance, including his sudden speech impediment, and the change of his eye color. This thrilled her, and at the same time, worried her. Omaki was notoriously deviant, and no doubt knew he would pull some stunt at the Gala, so was calling to warn him.

“Yes, Lord Ghan, I have called to inform you, that all guests have arrived, and all preparations for the Gala have begun. However, I will warn you only once young Lord, that I know you Omaki, and I expect you to be nothing less than the gracious host I know you can be. If I so much as hear of your deviant exploits being played out at this function, I will have you shipped off to some dark corner of the galaxy to guard rubbish disposal. Am I clear Lord Ghan?”

Jupiter's eyes followed Omaki's eyes, as she hoped to see them alter their color once again, and sure enough, Omaki's eyes dilated, when he spoke.

“Why Lady Jupiter, you cut me to the quick! I would never dream of doing such a thing to our Royal Family, and resent the implication that I would have any deviant games in mind.” Omaki smiled sweetly, as he averted his eyes away from Jupiter's glare. “I have nothing but the finest festivities planned, and must thank you for Lord Jensen's incredible assistance, and your generosity for the financing of this Gala. I presume you will be in attendance? Lord Kai, and Lord Raimen will be pleased no doubt. How do they fare?”

“Omaki, let's not veer away from the issue. The Royal Family will become the center of our society once again, and this Gala is the introduction of the two Lord Heirs, and the Lord's Dance. I have followed the rehearsals by the Pets, and applaud both you and Lord Jensen's production with the traditional dance of their time.”

Omaki's smile disappeared for a moment, and then spoke. “Well, we can't have our Lord's dancing with no partners now, can we? I'm certain, we will all be off dancing with the ladies late into the night. Will you do me the honor with a dance Lady Jupiter? You do dance no?”

Jupiter was silenced as Omaki spoke. He addressed her as “Lady Jupiter” of which only the Ancient's were accustomed to saying, and not only that, he said they would all be “off dancing with the ladies” which were his last words entered into her matrix. Jupiter further noted that Omaki's manner of speaking was formal, not his playful naughtiness, that she was accustomed to. Was Omaki beginning to awaken?

“Yes, Lord Ghan, I do dance, though I have never been asked in my 10,000 years of existence. If you prove honorable, and behave; I'll consider your request.”

Omaki bowed, “I am honored.” His expressions returned to his more jovial attributes, and he smiled sweetly once more. “Tonight's Gala, will herald the return of what was. Amoi's roots will now bring forth new fruit, and we are all to enjoy it's bounty!”

“Well spoken, my precious Jewel.” Jupiter now returned the smile. “Until tonight Omaki, now go finish your breakfast.”

“Now how did you..?”

Jupiter ended her communication, leaving Omaki staring at the monitor. He was puzzled by the strange conversation he just had, and wondered what it all meant? Moreover, how did she know he was eating breakfast? Strange indeed. Omaki returned to the dining hall, finding Argent engrossed in his own communication with details regarding beverages. When he was finished, he joined Omaki, and sat with loud sigh.

“This is going to be one of the longest days of my life! I am a keeper of the archives for heaven's sake, not a party planner! Though I doubt anyone could have pulled off the program we have planned. The Pet's will be the highlight as they introduce the Lord's Dance. I can't wait to see them all dressed in traditional gowns Omaki, this is going to be fantastic!”

Omaki took a deep breath, and smiled at Argent's excitement. Yes, it would be the longest day they've ever had, and something about beverages made him chuckle.

If they only knew.

*~*~*

Darius sent a team of men to the market in the early hours, as the sun began to rise. He would head to Iason's Estate to send his communication back to the Firm. His shuttle flew over the main island, and he took in the beauty of the Royal Estate, and listened to the bells chime, indicating the Royal Court would soon be in session. He thought of Iason and Riki holding such an audience in the near future, as Jupiter indicated the Renaissance was to begin with them. He recalled how Iason looked in his royal robes, and didn't think a man could be more stunning, than he did.

What will you do Lord Heir, if Martin is involved? Will you move the stars as you did with the young Prince? Is a medic of low birth, worthy of your attention? Darius was stirred from his thoughts when his communicator lit up.

“Yes?”

“Sir, we have located Owen, he says Martin and Jake are missing, but that Gabriel was at the Estate. What are your orders?”

If Owen was here, then so were the other medics, Darius reasoned. “Bring him to the Estate, if any of the other team members are at the market, bring them also.”

“Yes Sir.”

So it was his team of medics. Well, not exactly his, as they did go their own way, something about a safer mission, and low risk work. That irony is what his whole life has been about. It seems Martin and his team ran parallel lives, and this would certainly bring Lord's Mink and Oskuro into the picture.

The lead he was following was space chatter regarding the Queens, and a great treasure; that Martin's team was now involved, most certainly meant that whoever had the medics, was after this “treasure.”
Darius would be questioning Gabriel once he reached the Estate.

As the shuttle landed, Jathan stood at the base of the entrance, having granted permission for Darius to land on the Island Estate. Jathan still had some reservations about Darius, although his Master -Iason- held no grudge, and had forgiven his actions. It could not be helped, Darius had abducted him, and caused his injury, however, he did not question his Master's reasoning, only that it must be respected, and followed. Jathan bowed respectfully, and greeted Darius.

“Sir Darius, I was surprised to hear from you. To what do we owe the pleasure of your visit?”

“I have information vital to Lord Hector Stone of the Firm and Lord Iason Mink that needs to be transmitted to Amoi on a secure channel. I understand, that several former members of my medical team are here? May I see them?”

Jathan nodded, “Certainly, I believe Gabriel is in the main hall, please follow me.”

Darius entered the main hall, and found Gabriel sitting in a chair facing the gardens. Fran the youngest medic sat near him. Upon hearing Darius' voice, they jumped up and rushed to greet him. They looked as if they had not slept in days, and the worry on their face was transparent.

“Commander! By the Gods, how did you know? We've been looking for Martin and Jake, they have been missing for three days!”

“Gabriel, what happened? I thought your team was joining a Luxury Liner? I've been following a lead with regards matters of interest for the Firm. I overheard a conversation, with regards Lord Mink, and that “medics” were mentioned. I put two and two together figuring it may have been your team. Tell me what has happened?”

Gabriel's heart sank, as now his fears were confirmed, Martin had been abducted, along with Jake. “We've been looking for them all over Aristia for almost three days. We knew no one here other than Jathan, who's been so hospitable, and we didn't know where else to turn.”

Jathan returned with a glass of wine for Darius, who bowed respectfully. Jathan waited patiently for Darius to address him, taking notice of his new attitude. This was not the same man he first met after Iason was rescued. This person spoke with kindness, and concern for Martin and Jake, and was he not about to inform his Master of this development? This changed his opinion of the tall mercenary; perhaps his reunion with is father made the difference.

“Excuse me, Commander Darius, the communication center is ready to transmit your message. I believe Sir Raymone is waiting.”

Darius was surprised by how quick Jathan had responded. He followed the young man to the communication center, and faced the monitor. As promised, there stood his father Luis Raymone waiting with anticipation, and concern. When he received the communication that his son was trying to reach him, he had wondered why he had not contacted him through his ship's private communication center.

“Darius? What is the meaning of this? This is a secure channel, and not to be used by anyone but Lord Mink.”

“Father, I could not use the communication channels in subspace, as they would be unsecured, and vulnerable to being monitored. As you know I've been following a lead with regards to the space chatter on the 'Queens,' and a 'Treasure.' However, I have since learned that two members of the team of medics that cared for Lord Mink, a Martin, and Jake, where abducted. These two men, if you recall, were former crew members of mine. I overheard that those who abducted them were using truth serum to obtain information on Lord Iason, however, the serum was not working, and they had sent for a special serum from Amoi.”

Luis became concerned with this news. The serum he spoke of was used by the Intelligence Department under Lord Raoul Am. This was not good news if they had obtained this serum, Lord Am will not be pleased. And now this serum was on it's way to where the medics were being held?

“Darius, have you been following this ship?”

“Yes, it landed on Aristia to refuel. They have been traveling through the Merchant's Route, under the radar. I have it under surveillance, and will follow it, in hopes that it will lead me to where Martin and Jake are being held.”

“Son, if they have been using truth serum, then Lord Am's mind blocks are holding true. This will buy them some time, however, they are not trained soldiers, they are medics. They will not be able to fight the new serum for long. Have you learned where this ship is going?”

“No. But I have been tracking their course, and I believe they are heading back to Rhea. One thing did strike me as odd, this ship is registered to a company by the name of Advance Technologies, owned by a Lord Bastian from the Alpha Sector. Their captors have had them for two days now father, what do you want me to do?”

“You have done well Darius by communicating this to me. We have been investigating all who were on board the Ios, and now that this Lord Bastian has come up again, I fear, there is more to Lord Iason's abduction than we first thought. I want you to continue your surveillance of this ship, and use the secure line Jathan will provide you to communicate with us. I will brief Lord Stone, and Lord Am, and more than likely, Jupiter, now that Lord Mink has been brought up again.”

“Understood. I will be taking the team of medics with me, for I fear I will need them for Martin and Jake's care. Let's hope we are not too late. Will you please convey my regards, to Lord Mink?”

“Yes, I will. And Darius...please take care son, this is now turning out to be a very serious and dangerous mission. Remember all you were taught, and use your instincts.” Sir Luis smiled warmly at Darius, “Farewell, and survive the day.”

“Thank you father, yes, we will survive the day.”

Darius stared at the blank monitor, thinking of those words his father used. Three little words that were drummed into his head the first time he ever held a laser knife, now echoed in his mind. This was yet another mission that would have him crossing paths with Lord Mink, and the legacy of the Firm. Jupiter will be finding this out within moments he thought, and Lord Mink will be very upset to discover his favorite medic has been taken. Surely, he will give chase. So it was important to make sure he didn't lose site of that ship.

Gabriel had been listening to the Commander speak to Sir Raymone, his father. He knew they had reconciled after Iason was rescued, and as he heard of their plans, he had renewed faith in his former Commander. Owen had just arrived with Darius' security team. The six medics now stared at Darius, waiting for him to speak. Darius sighed and looked at Gabriel.

“Commander, what happened to Martin and Jake? Why were they taken? We're just medics, we don't know anything...why them?”

“Martin and Jake, as well as you six, all treated Lord Mink. I believe, whoever has them, wants information regarding him, or the Queens; that is, his mother and Lord Oskuro's mother. None of you know about this- and since you are coming with me- I will bring you up to date with what we're doing. That is, if you six think you can trust your old Commander once again? There is no secret agenda, nor will I lie to you and say it is a safe mission. But I will let you decide this on your own.”

Gabriel looked at the other five medics, the youngest, Fran nervously pulled on a long strand of hair, his way of indicating, he was afraid. But as he looked at their faces, and they all nodded in approval, Gabriel turned to Darius and spoke.

“We will go with you Commander, for we know Martin and Jake would not hesitate, if it were any of us. We're family, we've taken care of each other since we were medical students, and we know Lord Mink cares deeply for Martin.”

“Well, yes, he does that. Though I believe, Lord Iason cares deeply for all of you, so you will be happy to know he is going to be briefed tonight. I believe there is big gala event in honor of them, and their father's.”

The medics all looked at Darius with curiosity, “Fathers?”

Darius smiled. “Yes, that is a long story, and since we're going to be spending time together, you'll be happy with this story....quite the fairy tale I think.”

*~*~*

“Stand still father, how are you suppose to get dressed, when you keep pacing back and forth?” Riki smiled as Kai was making it difficult for the Toma to properly dress the nervous Ancient. Kai looked at himself in a full-length mirror, as Toma adjusted his royal robes, and handed him the gold clasp that held his black leather vest-coat.

Kai looked absolutely stunning in his full royal attire, grinning as Riki was also dressed in his royal robes, and body jewelry. He never had the chance to see him debut at the Lord's Dance, and was eagerly, if not anxiously looking forward to the night's festivities.

“Tell me honestly son, do my robes suit a ten-thousand, five-hundred year old Warrior like me? I've not felt so out of place since that time, Raimen and I were led by Omaki of all people, to what we thought was a night out in the city, and as it turned out, he marched us into a group of young Maiden's private rite of passage, dress rehearsal. Which wouldn't have been such a terrible thing in of itself, and actually wasn't, until the Queens walked in and found us all dancing with the ladies! To say they were furious is an understatement!”

Riki laughed, as he could imagine Omaki doing just as he spoke, recalling the whole “Bell the Master” incident, not too long ago. He could only imagine what that sly fox had planned for tonight, no doubt there will be something planned, as Omaki never failed to entertain.

“I think you look quite handsome father, you wear it well. Elder Petros, had your body jewelry made on Aristia, which has the most beautifully crafted jewelry of our era. He also had our royal robes hand made by the Elder Class. I wish our dear Lady, my mother, was awake to see you so dressed.”

“I don't think that would be such a good idea, my young Prince, unless you want to see Iason's priceless art flying across the room!”

Raimen spoke, as he walked into the room, all decked out in his royal robes, which made the tall, Intellect, look almost angelic I appearance. Of course, Riki knew better, for we're talking about Raimen, who never failed to get his father in hot water with the Queens.

“Now who's fault would that be? Hm? You waltz in, fresh as the day is new, with your innocent smile, and 'who me?' attitude, when it seems you are always the one to escape her rather accurate arm!”

“Oh Kai, relax! This is going to be a splendid night, think of it- both our wives are yet to grace this world with their presence, and believe me- Amoi will soon find out what we already know- and thank the God's, they were still sleeping!” Raimen winked, “So my dear, and ancient, Ancient, we are free and clear to have one more night of absolutely unlimited wine, sex and, well, more wine, and you are here whining about it?”

Riki giggled, as the two men looked incredibly animated, as Raimen continued to tease Kai. Toma seemed to buzz around them like a fly trying to finish his job of getting Kai dressed. He was not alone, as Daryl walked in all flustered trying to find Raimen. He had wondered out of his room, while his back was turned, eagerly searching for Kai to see him all dressed up.

The penthouse was a flurry of activity as there were four of them to dress, and all equally as difficult to pin down, including Iason who was still monitoring Lady Erin's readouts from the privacy of the library. Heiku had reassured them, that she would be fine, as she continued to sleep peacefully. Heiku himself was dragged away by his own Attendant.

Katze, who had accompanied Daryl to help out, was going over some last minute details, as to rumors heard on the Black Market, regarding this treasure. Odi and Ayuda joined in, as Iason was briefed.

“Iason, I have heard some odd chatter coming from the underground, as there seems to be a search for a particular 'Jewel' of great worth, which along with this 'treasure,' has this whole sector buzzing with activity.”

Iason raised an eyebrow at this new information, as he recalled Jupiter stated the entries made by the Queens called Omaki a “Jewel among the Intellect's” But no one knew of this term, but those who were at Jupiter's briefing the night before. Katze watched as Iason's facial expressions changed from one extreme to another, and eventually sat down at his desk with a loud sigh.

“Katze, I will need you to continue to monitor the underground, and keep me informed. Ayuda, I will need you and Odi to guard Lord Ghan tonight. Riki and I will be preoccupied with the planned Lord's Dance, so you will be in charge of guarding him, which will be no easy task. Lord Am's security detail will be tight either way, however, these issues arising from this new threat, make me weary of all the Delegates, and VIP's attending this Gala.

Riki popped his head into the library just as Iason was concluding his meeting, and the four men were silenced by his appearance. Riki, wearing his royal robes, and body jewelry made Iason swallow hard, as he was a vision in silk and leather. He wore a sheer sleeveless high collared black silk shirt that showed off his muscular arms, and chest, beneath his floor-length leather vest held in place by a golden clasp. His gold and sapphire nipple ring that could be seen through his shirt was hidden, only to be seen up close.

His trousers were black leather, and tight fitting, worn over knee-high boots, leaving little to the imagination. His every detail was addressed, as the gold body jewelry was a beautiful contrast to his dark skin, and made his dark eyes that much more enchanting. Riki wore the golden necklace with the hieroglyphic symbol of the Tempest, which made Iason smile. The two golden arm bracelets were worn high on both arms, and Riki wore the gold earring Petros gave him to remind him of his power.

Iason felt his cock stir, as his lover was a vision in black, unaware, that Riki was thinking the very same thoughts, as he gazed at Iason in his royal robes of midnight blue, and gold embroidered floral vines. Iason wore a long sleeved ivory silk shirt buttoned high on his neck, beneath his knee-length coat, which had golden buttons and hugged his torso, showing off his broad shoulders, and thin waist. His white trousers were worn down to the knees, with thigh high black boots.

He wore sapphire stud earrings, which brought out his beautiful eyes, and a gold necklace with the hieroglyphic symbol of the Flame. His incredibly long golden hair was tied back with a white silk tie, and was styled to fall about his face, with a small braid in which hung the tiny bell, to remind him also of his powers. Riki winked at Iason, as his thoughts were conveyed in his eyes.

Iason loved that he wore the body jewelry he had given him, truly looking too good to show off, yet, he was looking forward to having all of Amoi, gaze at his beauty. Riki smiled sweetly, as Iason walked over, and gave him a soft kiss on the lips. Katze, Odi and Ayuda knew better than to hang around, when those two made eye contact dressed as they were. They quietly left the library, leaving Iason and Riki to some last minute privacy, before they made their public appearance.

*~*~*

Thanx for reading my little story!! Please give a review =D